Updated at: 10/30/2009 6:46 PM
By: Renee Passal

Print Story  Email to a Friend

Drug Court Grad Gives Back

"The moment I took my first pain pill, I knew I was in love with the drug," remembers Jennifer Potocnik, a Duluth Drug Court graduate.

She was addicted to pain medication for eight years. But after going through Drug Court, successfully kicked the habit.

Now she's helping others do the same, as a social worker at the Center for Alcohol and Drug Treatment.

"It's hits home, because I truly understand what they're going through," Potocnik said.

Leadership at the Center said they felt Potocnik was a perfect fit, for more than that reason.

"Her approach, personal experience, and professional experience, all play a role in how she connects with clients," said Julie Seitz, a program director at CADT.

Potocnik is studying to become a chemical dependency counselor.